Orioles Announce Special Honor for Legendary Sportswriter
Jim Henneman has seen a lot of Baltimore Orioles games over the years.
In fact, it'd be hard-pressed to find anyone who's seen more Orioles baseball than Henneman.
Over 5,000 games, by his count.
He began covering the team in 1958, the organization's fifth season in Baltimore since relocating from St. Louis and changing their name from the Browns to Orioles.
The team wasn't very good then, but it was on the upswing. The team had a talented 21-year-old third baseman by the name of Brooks Robinson, and more talent was on the way.
Soon, stars like Boog Powell, Frank Robinson and Jim Palmer arrived. Earl Weaver took over as manager, turning the team into a powerhouse.
Henneman was there for the glory years of the 1960s and 70s when Baltimore was the toast of the American League. He saw Cal Ripken Jr.'s whole career, including The Streak. He's been around for good years and lean years, including the team's recent resurgence thanks to a new wave of young talent.
Like a good utility player, Henneman has been remarkably versatile over the past 66 years.
Professionally, he's been a gifted sportswriter and an official scorekeeper.
Personally, he's been a friend and a mentor to many, a warm and friendly presence in the press box for decades.
On Tuesday, the Orioles announced they are honoring Henneman by naming the press box at Camden Yards after him.
It's a fitting tribute to a man who spent so much of his life positively impacting others.
The only question is this: what took so long?
